I am revisiting some electrical items for the newer members here.
I have installed an automatic transfer switch to my Montana 3400RL, so that if I have a generator supplying power, or my 3,000 Watt inverter, (Both using the same power cord input to the transfer switch from the front of the trailer) The transfer switch will sense the input power and close one contactor, opening the contacts on the other. When on ‘shore power’ the other contactor will carry power. If I have low campground voltage, the coil will not engage on the transfer switch, giving me protection in that way as well.
I bought the Iota ‘smart charger’ to enable the converter to do the best job of charging and maintaining my batteries. (I don’t know if this is standard equipment now, if not, get one.) It is pictured, the module just plugs in with a telephone type connector.
I went with a Spike protection unit like the one I wired into my 'Stick house' This protects the electrical system from ‘spikes’ or surges.
It is made by Intermatic. It is simply piggy backed to each of the Buss Bars in my Monte. It has Two Green lights, showing protection on the Two legs of 120 volts, one Red light showing failure of the system. Around $160.00
I installed an outlet there, so I could plug in a simple voltage Gage.
I also wired in a digital 12 volt amp gage to monitor power usage when needed, on battery power alone. (I got two of the titles back-wards, but you will get the idea)
Installation
Home panel Spike protection
View with W/D and vent installed
Pulled 12 volt and line voltage panels
Digital Amp Gage
3000 Watt Inverter
Converter (Battery charger and 12 volt power supply)
Your converter, (Mine) probably yours as well, is a 55 amp. (Medium size) 15 amps to 90 amps; with a rapid charge capability.
It comes with a male plastic phone type jack taped to the unit that, when inserted, will provide a temporary rapid charge for your 12 volt storage system. (single, or multiple 12 volt batteries, or an even number of Golf Cart batteries . Normal 13.6, to 14.2 fast charge.
This is a temporary mode of operation, as it would boil, or overcharge if left in. Useful for a quick charge need.
It’s maximum amp draw is 15 amps. (A/C)
If you blow fuses, look for reverse polarity, these fuses are designed for that.
Your converter has built in protection from:
Voltage spikes
Low line voltage (power from the main, coming in to the RV) Sometimes referred to as ‘Brown out’
Your converter can be used with, OR without a battery connected with no adverse effects.
All and all a pretty sophisticated piece of equipment.
Read up on the IQ Smart charger option;
Iota site
Threaded Mode
